California governor says state 'prepared for any emergency' amid Middle East conflict

California ramps up security and monitors potential Iran-linked drone threats, following an FBI advisory. Governor Newsom emphasizes preparedness despite no immediate danger.

Reuters

March 12, 2026

California governor says state 'prepared for any emergency' amid Middle East conflict

California Governor Gavin Newsom, who is considered a likely contender for the 2028 U.S. presidential election, speaks about his new memoir "Young Man in a Hurry," during a book tour event in the state which traditionally holds the nation's first primary election for president every four years, at The Music Hall in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, U.S., March 5, 2026.

Brian Snyder/Reuters

California Governor Gavin Newsom said on Wednesday (March 11) the state remains vigilant against potential security threats tied to the Middle East conflict, following a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) warning about possible Iranian drone attacks.

In a statement posted on social media, Newsom said California has increased its security measures since the conflict began. "I am in constant coordination with security and intelligence officials... to monitor potential threats to California — including those tied to the conflict in the Middle East," Newsom said.

The FBI recently alerted law enforcement agencies in California about the possibility of Iran deploying drones from an unidentified vessel near the U.S. West Coast, ABC News reported.

"While we are not aware of any imminent threats at this time, we remain prepared for any emergency in our state," Newsom's office said.

-Production: Suheir Sheikh/Reuterss